Amar’s career background had been working within the Insurance industry in the personal lines sector for 12 years, where he was dealing with Household Insurance.

Amar’s career background had been working within the Insurance industry in the personal lines sector for 12 years, where he was dealing with Household Insurance.

What were you doing immediately before taking up your franchise?

“I had a career change and went into the lettings market, dealing with all different types of properties in the Insurance sector. I always, naturally, had a passion for property so I joined a letting agent.”

How did you discover franchising?

“I’ve personally been looking into franchising for four years and examined all kinds of franchises within the market; Fast food, Insurance Claims, Estate agents and I also have family who have franchises, so obviously I started to look into franchising myself as I could see that the franchise market was going from strength to strength.”

Why did you chose franchising over an employed career?

“I always wanted to be my own boss, leaving school and joining a family business gave me that ‘head’s up’ in life. I had school friends who were all employed whilst I was working within a family business which made me less inclined to want to work for anyone.

“Franchising is the way forward for me as working within a family business I can see the similarities between that and franchising; you become part of a family and grow together.

Why did you chose this franchise over others that are available?

“I had been researching franchising for a substantial amount of time; it got frustrating at times as not all the franchises were for me. When I found Redstones, as soon as I saw the franchise model and spoke to the franchise manager, I knew this was the right move for me. It ticked all the boxes.”

“My family is not joining me in my franchise so I will be building the business alone at start with, but who knows what the future might bring.”

How did you raise the finances required?

“I was lucky enough to have enough in my savings from my previous jobs.”

How have you found the training and support you received from your franchisor?

“Very helpful and professional, it’s a lot to take it when you first join, but for me just having that peace of mind of knowing that I can pick up the phone and call the team anytime is priceless.”

What challenges have you faced while getting to know your new business:

“Joining the franchise has challenged me to learn new sectors of the property market; for example dealing with sales, accounting and learning the system. These are areas I have never dealt with before but I am enjoying the learning experience and gaining additional skills.”

What ‘highs’ have you experienced in your new business?

“What highs? The whole experience really… learning new roles, meeting new people, being my own boss and joining a well-established company.”

What are your plans for the future?

“I want to grow the franchise along with the team as this is what I want to do until I retire! I am looking to employ staff and expand in different locations.”

What would your advice be to someone thinking of buying a franchise?

“If you have a passion for something but you are not sure how to start the business on your own, franchising is the way forward. Just having people around you that you can learn from while being your own boss is very reassuring.”